Having led Payne through the self-study process in preparation for our ATS evaluation team visit and would like to offer survival tips to institutions preparing to go through the process.
Step 1: Prepare the Institution (2.5 years (30 months before the visit))
☐ Gather and organize evidence (assessment data, program reviews, minutes, budgets,
policies).
☐ Cross-check that every claim in self-study has documentation.
☐ Create a “one-stop shop” binder or digital folder for quick access.
☐ Conduct mock interviews with faculty, staff, and trustees.
☐ Review accreditation standards and align them with your evidence. Survival Tip : Think of this step as stocking supplies for a journey. The more organized you are, the less scrambling you will do later.
Step 2: Set the Tone (Day 1 of the visit)
☐ Welcome the team with warmth and professionalism.
☐ Provide a simple welcome packet (schedule, campus map, contact list, mission
statement).
☐ Remind all participants: honesty and clarity over defensiveness.
☐ Assign hospitality hosts (students or staff) to guide visitors between meetings. Survival Tip : First impressions matter. Hospitality lowers tension. Step 3: Tell Your Story (During interviews and meetings)
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